Implant FAQ's

Q: What are Dental Implants?

A: Dental implants are screws that are placed directly onto the jawbone, so they can serve as “roots” to hold the artificial teeth. They may be used to replace a tooth or several teeth, which have been lost due to a dental disease or injury.

Q: Who can have dental implants?

A: In principle, individuals who have sufficient jaw bone quality, appropriate anatomy as well as suitable oral and general health, can have dental implants.

Q: What does PRGF mean?

A: In molecular biology, platelet-derived growth factor (PRGF) is one of the numerous growth factors, or proteins that regulate cell growth and division. In particular, it plays a significant role in blood vessel formation, the growth of blood vessels from already-existing blood vessel tissue

Q: Who do you go to for dental implants?

A: You can go to a general dentist who can discuss the possible procedures for your missing teeth. You can also go directly to a qualified implant dentist for your dental implant requirements.

Q: Are dental implants expensive?

A: The cost of dental implants will depend on the number of implants to be placed, and other factors; the best thing to do is to go for a consultation with a qualified implant dentist so you can have the cost estimation you need. Those who have had dental implants would say that the benefits are worth the investment they made.

Q: What are the advantages of having dental implants?

A: Improved speech and appearance, higher level of comfort, easier chewing of food in a natural way and improved self confidence and self esteem.

Q: How do dental implants compare to dentures?

A: Dental implants feel and look the same way as natural teeth; they also prevent further bone deterioration. Dentures, on the other hand, have the tendency to move and cause discomfort at times, because they are not anchored to the jawbone the way dental implants are.

Q: Is it a good idea to have dentures anchored with dental implants?

A: Yes, because the dentures would now have something fixed to be attached to and reduce or eliminate the movement of the dentures. This in turn would prevent the discomfort of the dentures rubbing against the gums. Dentures that are stabilised with dental implants will also give you more freedom with regards to the types of food you can eat, and prevent speech problems that come with dentures that have the tendency to move.

Q: Would I feel any discomfort when the dental implants teeth are put to use?

A: You should feel no discomfort, and it will actually feel like you have your natural teeth back in place.

Q: Will it be painful to have dental implants?

A: The procedure itself can be made more comfortable and free from anxiety with the use of standard dental techniques and if needed conscious sedation; it is best to consult an implant surgeon (or your general dentist) to see which sedation technique will be best for you.

Q: Is it possible to have implants immediately placed?

A: Yes, via the immediate extraction and implant placement technique. This is now a standard technique. However it is different from being able to use the implants on the same day. Techniques do exist for this but patients need to be carefully evaluated and the surgery and restorations carefully planned. This is not for everyone.

Q: What is the success rate of dental implants?

A: The success rate of dental implants ranges from 94% - 98%. The small percentage of unsuccessful implants can easily be retreated either by implants or a different modality.

Q: What can be done to unsuccessful dental implants?

A: If they “fail”, they can be remedied by the replacement of a (usually) slightly bigger dental implant. The success of the initial implant is determined by proper diagnosis, as well as the overall health of the patient.

Q: I am terrified of even a regular check up; how can I go through with having dental implants?

A: You can ask your dental implant surgeon about conscious sedation or sedation dentistry, so you will not have to deal with the fear of the whole experience.

Q: After the sedative has worn off, will I feel pain after the dental implants are placed?

A: It will depend on the number of implants placed, their location, as well as your own pain tolerance level.

Q: After the dental implants are put in place, do I still need to clean the surrounding area?

A: Yes, definitely. You still need to practice proper dental hygiene; if the dental implant’s surrounding areas are not cleaned thoroughly on a regular basis, you might develop gum disease. We recommend regular visits to a Hygienist.

Q: How do I know if I am suitable for Same Day Teeth, All on 4 teeth or Fast and Fixed techniques?

A: These techniques and others by similar makes generally describe a technique that deals with a situation of no teeth or where there is a failing dentition and the teeth need to be extracted. An initial assessment is mandatory that takes in to account a person’s medical status and dental condition after which it can be confirmed if the patient is suitable for this type of technique. The extraction of teeth, placement of implants and fabrication of an initial fixed bridge can then be carried out in the same day saving time, surgery and expense. Not everyone is suitable for this and often the day of surgery is arrived at after considerable planning and preparation.